Question
I began taking Boswellia,an antiinflamatory herb, a couple of monthes ago.  After 2 weeks I developed blisters on mu hands, sore rashy throat, burning skin on back, chest and arms.  It took several weeks to calm down and in the meantime I discovered I am allergic to the percocet they gave me for the pain.  I continue to experience a low level of the throat pain and burning skin.  A few days ago I took ibuprofen for my bursitis(I had not for weeks) and within a few hours I had the burning skin, tongue,and sore throat much worse.  I think I must be allergic to it too now!  I am now afraid to take anything for pains.  What do you think I can take?  Is tylenol safe for me?  This all so weird, like the herb really messed me up.  I was never allergic to any food,meds or anything before!  Thanks Susan

Answer
Hi Susan and thanks for writing,

You need to identify your allergy before you have a more severe reaction or try other medications. I strongly recommend going to a Chinese Medicine Doctor or Naturopath as opposed to your GP as they are far more knowledgable on allergic reactions and their causes - but if you're not comfrtbale with that, go to your GP for Allergy testing.

In the meantime, you might go to a Health Food Store and get a Natural Antihistamine like Pollinson Drops to sooth the symptoms and maybe some Tea Tree Oil or Grapefruit Seed Extract ('Nutribiotic') for the rash.

I hope this helps and I wish you all the best.

Margot